Preventing elder abuse, reducing social isolation and creating inclusive communities for multicultural seniors was the focus at a Healthy Ageing Forum held today by the NSW Government.

Minister for Ageing Tanya Davies, Minister for Multiculturalism Ray Williams and Liberal Candidate for Granvillle Tony Issa met with community leaders and support services to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing seniors from multicultural backgrounds.

“A large proportion of older people from multicultural backgrounds have limited English proficiency, and many may revert to their first language as they age.”

Mrs Davies said the Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit (EAHRU), an initiative of the NSW Ageing Strategy 2016-2020, has received more than 10,000 calls since it was introduced by the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government in 2013.

“The abuse of older people is reprehensible. The NSW Government is committed to ensuring older people are respected, and that there are strong mechanisms in place for elder abuse to be reported and acted upon,” Mrs Davies said.

Mr Issa said the EAHRU reaches vulnerable older people who may need referrals to support services to prevent or protect them from elder abuse, and also provides helpful information and awareness materials online in a number of languages.

“We must ensure multicultural seniors in our community have the same opportunities to actively participate and enjoy overall wellbeing and a healthy lifestyle as they age.”

Representatives from NSW Seniors Card, Service NSW and Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit spoke at the forum to highlight the culturally appropriate supports and services available to seniors in NSW.

Anyone who witnesses, experiences or suspects elder abuse should call the Helpline on 1800 628 221 or for further information please visit www.elderabusehelpline.com.au. In an emergency call ‘000’.